(Newser)
–
Health problems caused by pollution choke $28 billion out of California's economy every year, according to a new study. Most of the cost is linked to 3,000 smog-related deaths each year, along with days of work missed by workers with respiratory problems aggravated by pollution spewed from tailpipes and smokestacks, reports the Los Angeles Times.

Much of the worst air in the nation comes from diesel emissions from trucks delivering imported goods. A state board votes next month on a proposal to force diesel truckers to install filters or upgrade their engines. Truckers argue it will be too expensive to upgrade, but the study's authors say their findings make it plain that the public is already paying too high a price.